Three Days In The Costa Rican Rainy Season

Average temperature57°F -75°F in December; 63°F -81°F in May (San José)

High seasonDecember to April (dry season)

Although Costa Ricans speak Spanish along with their Central-American counterparts, they have their own unique language when it comes to describing the country’s frequent rain. Pelo de gato — literally meaning cat’s fur — refers to a misty rain, an aguacero indicates a fierce downpour, and a temporal describes a continuous, light rain caused by a passing storm.

The rainy season is in full swing in Central America, and for Costa Rica, that translates into six straight months of precipitation every year from May through October. So it’s not surprising that Costa Ricans have developed countless words and expressions to convey all the subtleties of rain.

But even in the rainy season, there is still plenty to see and do in Costa Rica. In fact, the rainy season brings with it certain advantages that the dry season doesn’t have, like cheaper prices, shorter queues and some very unique attractions. So if you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica over the next few months, here is a taste of what the rich coast has to offer in the upcoming rainy season.

Day 1: In the capital

San José is not like any North American city you know. Ancient buses spout thick exhaust fumes and the bustling downtown is lined with numerous armerias (weapons stores) — all of this, of course, simply adds to the city’s charm.

But even though San José is the hub of the country, the city itself is still set up like a small town. One main street, aptly called Avenida Central (Central Avenue), runs through the entire city from west to east, making getting around fairly straightforward. You can walk through most of downtown by foot, but do be prepared to get wet. When it rains here, the streets become virtually flooded, and you might find yourself walking through large pools of water.

Start your day at the busy Mercado Central (Central Market), located downtown on theAvenida Central between streets 6 and 8. Grab a typical Costa Rican breakfast of gallo pinto (rice and beans), or browse through the market’s variety of fruit, spices, clothing, bags, local works of art, and souvenirs.